When it comes to satisfying a craving for something delicious and easy, few things can beat a well-crafted panini. The classic Italian sandwich has become a staple around the world, with its crispy bread, melted cheese, and savory meats. But why settle for just any old panini when you can have a taste of Italy itself? In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Italian panini recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic combinations like caprese and prosciutto to creative twists featuring roasted vegetables and spicy sausage, these recipes showcase the best of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, there’s an Italian panini recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
Classic Italian Caprese Panini
A delicious twist on the classic caprese salad, this panini combines fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a flavor-packed sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Italian-style)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer two slices of bread with tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the other two slices of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Panini
Grilled Chicken Pesto Panini Recipe
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful sandwich that combines the richness of pesto, the juiciness of grilled chicken, and the crunch of crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 4 slices of baguette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices by grilling them for 1-2 minutes or baking in a toaster oven at 350°F (180°C) for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the panini by placing a grilled chicken breast on each toasted bread slice, followed by a sprinkle of pesto and mozzarella cheese (if using). Top with fresh basil leaves (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto and Mozzarella Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet satisfying panini recipe, featuring the classic Italian duo of prosciutto and mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of good-quality white bread
– 4 oz prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface.
3. Place 2-3 slices of prosciutto on each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add 1-2 slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the prosciutto.
5. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per sandwich
Tomato Basil and Fresh Mozzarella Panini
Elevate your panini game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the earthiness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of mozzarella cheese, followed by a tomato slice, and finishing with a sprinkle of basil leaves.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Italian Panini
Roasted Vegetable Italian Panini: A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted vegetables with the savory flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
4. Assemble panini by spreading roasted vegetables on one slice of baguette, topping with mozzarella cheese and basil.
5. Place another slice of baguette on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Cook in a panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage Panini
This recipe combines spicy Italian sausage with melted mozzarella cheese and crispy bread for a flavorful and satisfying panini.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons marinara sauce
– 2 slices of bread (such as ciabatta or baguette)
– 2 slices mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the olive oil, garlic, and parsley to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
4. Assemble the panini by spreading marinara sauce on one slice of bread, then adding the cooked sausage, mozzarella cheese, and top with another slice of bread.
5. Place the panini in the preheated press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Panini
Eggplant Parmesan Panini Recipe: A flavorful twist on the classic Italian-American dish, this panini combines tender eggplant slices with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 Italian-style baguette slices, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip eggplant slices in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Spread marinara sauce on toasted baguette slices, followed by a layer of cooked eggplant and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Tuna Melt Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Tuscan Tuna Melt Panini. Fresh tuna, creamy goat cheese, and sweet caramelized onions come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of yellowfin tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 2 slices of baguette
– 2 tablespoons goat cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together tuna, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
4. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
5. Assemble the panini by spreading goat cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice, followed by the tuna mixture and caramelized onions.
6. Top with the second baguette slice (buttered side up).
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini that combines the richness of pesto chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto sauce and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill or cook in a pan until cooked through.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the pesto-sun-dried tomato mixture on each bread slice, followed by a grilled chicken breast, and finishing with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Place sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Panini
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Panini Recipe
Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring tender chicken breast glazed with a rich balsamic reduction and layered between crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened and syrupy.
4. Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or bake chicken in the oven for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble panini by layering grilled chicken, mixed greens, sliced red onion, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze between two slices of bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Meatball Panini
Italian Meatball Panini Recipe
Elevate your lunch game with this satisfying Italian-inspired sandwich. This panini is filled with juicy meatballs, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, all pressed between crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Italian-style meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 slices of Ciabatta bread
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the Ciabatta bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Brush both sides of the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Place two meatballs on each slice of bread, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
5. Assemble the sandwiches and place them in the panini press or grill.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Margherita Panini with Fresh Basil
A simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired sandwich that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 2 large tomato slices
– 2 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Top each bread slice with a tomato slice, a mozzarella cheese slice, and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Portobello Mushroom and Goat Cheese Panini
Savor the earthy flavors of Portobello mushrooms and creamy goat cheese in this indulgent panini.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/4 inch thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of rustic bread (such as Ciabatta or Baguette)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Brush both sides of the mushroom slices with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Butter one side of each bread slice.
5. Assemble the panini by placing a few mushroom slices on one bread slice, followed by crumbled goat cheese.
6. Top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Place the panini in the press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the mushrooms are tender.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pepperoni and Provolone Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet satisfying panini recipe that combines the flavors of pepperoni, provolone cheese, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– 8-10 slices of pepperoni
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in the panini press or on the grill.
4. Top with 4-5 slices of pepperoni, followed by 1/4 cup of shredded provolone cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil (if using).
5. Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Panini recipe, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 4 slices of baguette
– 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
5. Assemble paninis by placing a shrimp on each slice, followed by mozzarella cheese.
6. Place the paninis in the press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Artichoke and Spinach Panini
This recipe combines the flavors of artichoke hearts, fresh spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese to create a delicious panini perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice, buttered side down, in the panini press or on the grill.
5. Top with the artichoke-spinach mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Place another bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Pancetta and Arugula Panini
This Italian-inspired panini combines crispy pancetta, peppery arugula, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying snack or light lunch. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rustic bread (e.g., Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 6 oz pancetta, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy, flipping halfway through (about 5 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, toast bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Assemble paninis by spreading a layer of arugula on each toasted bread slice, followed by a few pieces of cooked pancetta and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
5. Place paninis in the press or grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is crispy.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Four Cheese Italian Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this creamy and flavorful Four Cheese Italian Panini recipe. Rich mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, and gorgonzola cheeses come together to create a satisfying and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of fresh arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of shaved parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of sliced provolone cheese
– 2 tablespoons of crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with olive oil.
3. Top two slices with arugula, mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, and gorgonzola cheese.
4. Place the remaining two bread slices on top, buttered side up.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 18 delicious Italian panini recipes! From classic Caprese to spicy sausage, and from roasted vegetables to meatballs, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh mozzarella and basil or prosciutto and arugula, this collection of panini recipes has got you covered. With a mix of vegetarian, gluten-free, and meat-based options, there’s no excuse not to get creative with your sandwiches. Dive into the world of Italian flavors and make lunchtime a culinary adventure!
